In writing these monthly columns, I’m reminded how quickly time goes by. Fortunately, topics are readily available to write about in our world. This month, I would like to share encouraging news with our CJCAT members. The Texas Association of Counties (TAC) Board recently met in person – always better dialogue than virtually. We had a positive and important meeting and welcomed new members. The business meeting was next, followed by social interaction, updates, and good information that can hopefully be shared at a later date. I would like to congratulate all members appointed to their new roles at TAC. Our past president, Victoria County Judge Ben Zeller, was placed on the Investment Committee – well deserved, as Judge Zeller is a good, conservative, fiscally responsible individual. To quote Ben in his last publication as CJCAT president: “Serving as an officer and president of the CJCAT is not merely a title or formality, as can be the case in some organizations. It’s a position of responsibility and consequence, and Texas counties expect our leaders to get out there and lead.”
With that said, all associations have representatives on the TAC Board – a good balance for good governing. We as leaders of our respective associations are expected to report to our boards and members. Rotation is inevitable, and those coming on to serve need to be fully informed on all aspects of involvement. They need to be apprised of choices that have been made regarding any fiduciary decisions, investment options, and the stability of their regional association and the state association, as well as TAC. We are not entitled to lengthy terms, nor should we be. Association presidents should be involved in the current decision-making process, and they should provide a sound foundation for future challenges.
TAC is a non-profit corporation that provides a variety of services to our associations, such as education and training, legal and legislative support, and also insurance for member counties. TAC supplements the work of the CJCAT, and we appreciate their assistance. Counties should welcome visits from TAC representatives and provide input on ideas and concerns so they can better serve our members. We, as county leaders, also have a fiduciary duty to our employees’ health coverage and our taxpayers because it is their money that affords the coverage. Our counties require tax funds for coverage through TAC memberships. We need to provide these services with maximum efficiency.
For 53 years, TAC has been a representative voice for all Texas counties and county officials. Again, credit for creating and improving TAC goes back to our predecessors, who created it out of necessity and someone’s good idea. It’s truly ours to lead or lose.